Salthill isn’t just known for its gorgeous views and beach vibes—it’s also home to some of Galway’s best coffee spots. Whether you’re seeking the best speciality coffee in Salthill, a charming café to rest after your Prom walk, or a sea-view latte to kickstart your day, here’s where to find your perfect brew by the bay.
From artisan brews and beachside cortados to design-forward spaces serving natural wine and iced matcha, Salthill has become a must-visit for coffee lovers. Looking for a takeaway espresso after a morning swim, or a cosy café to catch up with friends? We’ve curated the ultimate guide to Salthill’s top coffee spots—each one as unique as the next, and all worth adding to your Galway itinerary.
above: The perfect pour at Kali Coffee Bar | photo by Ciarán MacChoncarraige
Kali Coffee Bar
Address: 133 Upper Salthill Road
More information here
If you’re even mildly into coffee, you owe it to yourself to stop by Kali Coffee Bar—home to some of Ireland’s most award-winning brews. Co-owner Enda Johnstone took home the Irish Brewers Cup and represented the country on the world stage, so every pour here is made with knowledge, care, and flair. The minimalist interiors and welcoming ethos make Kali more than just a coffee shop—it’s a community hub. They’re proudly dog-friendly and offer service through Irish Sign Language, ensuring everyone feels right at home.
Why go: World-class coffee | Warm inclusivity | Dog-friendly and laid-back
Ré Coffee + Design
Address: 137 Upper Salthill Road
More information here
Chic, creative, and undeniably cool, Ré Coffee + Design blends Galway’s artisanal spirit with modern café culture. This design-forward café serves specialty coffee roasted by Bell Lane in Mullingar—smooth, rich, and ethically sourced. But it doesn’t stop there. Ré doubles as a gift store, offering shelves lined with local Irish crafts, quirky greeting cards, artwork, and curated gifts. Hungry? Their locally-made treats from Hapi Bakery are the perfect pairing for your flat white.
Why go: Art-meets-coffee vibes | Great for gifting | Locally sourced everything
above: The ideal takeaway treat from Gourmet Tart Co Salthill
Gourmet Tart Co Salthill
Address: Jameson Court, Upper Salthill
More information here
A true Galway staple, Gourmet Tart Co has long been a go-to for early risers, beach walkers, and families alike. Open daily from 7am, this café offers a blend of convenience and indulgence—perfect for grabbing coffee and pastries on the go, or sitting in for a lazy latte and hearty breakfast after a promenade stroll. The name doesn’t lie: their tarts and baked goods are a standout, and their friendly service only sweetens the experience.
Why go: Early morning caffeine | Sit-in or takeaway | Great for families and pups
Beachfront Barista
Address: On the grounds of Galway Bay Hotel, Salthill Promenade
More information here
A seasonal coffee dock with a million-dollar view, Beachfront Barista is your go-to for coffee by the seaside. Tucked in front of the Galway Bay Hotel, this al fresco gem serves high-quality coffees and post-swim pick-me-ups—perfect for walkers, joggers, and four-legged companions. Complete with breathtaking views of Galway Bay, there are few better spots to sip a cappuccino with the sound of waves in the background.
Why go: Sea views | Dog-friendly | Outdoor seating with serious charm
above: A fresh cuppa from The Creamery | photo by Ciarán MacChoncarraige
The Creamery
Address: The Promenade, Salthill
More information here
A laid-back café-restaurant, The Creamery is beloved by families, beachgoers, and ice cream seekers alike. Open all day with indoor and outdoor seating, this seaside gem serves everything from single espressos to herbal teas, creamy frappés to colourful smoothies—and yes, their ice cream game is next level (now with vegan options too!). Whether you're popping in post-swim or settling in for lunch, it's hard not to feel at home here.
Why go: Family-friendly | Unbeatable ice cream | Relaxed Prom views
Ground & Co
Address: Claude Toft Park, Atlantaquaria, Salthill
More information here
Steps from Galway’s aquarium and playgrounds, Ground & Co is one of Salthill’s top child-friendly cafés. With cosy indoor corners and a dog-welcoming outdoor terrace, it's the perfect pitstop after seaside exploring. Their coffee is rich and robust, and their in-house baked goods (made fresh each morning) are the stuff of local legend.
Why go: Homemade treats | Child & dog-friendly | Relaxed all-day eats
above: Order a coffee with picturesque sea views in Galway, photo from Blackrock Cottage
Blackrock Cottage
Address: Blackrock House, Salthill
More information here
Set beside the famous Blackrock Diving Tower, this charming café is a magnet for early risers and cold-water swimmers. Open daily from 7am for takeaway and 8am for sit-down breakfast, Blackrock Cottage serves up rich coffees, alternative milks, and a wide selection of herbal and decaf teas. With outdoor tables and a friendly, casual vibe, it's perfect for soaking up morning light and Prom views.
Why go: Early opening hours | Prime sea view location | Ideal for sea swimmers
The Pear Tree Café & Bistro
Address: Grattan Road, Salthill
More information here
A hidden gem near the city side of Salthill, The Pear Tree Café & Bistro is your go-to for locally-sourced everything. From SOMA Coffee to Sullivan’s sourdough and organic greens from Mill House Farm, the passion for quality shines through. Start your day here with a pastry and specialty tea from The Secret Garden or dig into one of their loaded gourmet toasties—it’s all wholesome, made with love, and seriously delicious.
Why go: Farm-fresh flavours | SOMA coffee | Great tea selection
Main image from Kali Coffee Bar | photo by Ciarán MacChoncarraige
Published on Updated on
